ABSTRACT
Nasogastric intubation Indications Nasogastric intubation should be performed as part of every colic examination (1) to remove accumulations of gastric fluid and gas that can lead to gastric rupture, (2) to gain information regarding the lesion site (i.e. a small intestinal obstruction should be suspected in horses with reflux), and (3) to give enteral fluids and electrolytes, mineral oil, or other laxatives. A nasogastric tube should also be passed in a horse with saliva and ingesta at the nares to check for and relieve an esophageal obstruction (choke) (p. 47).
